Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Super Easy Protein Bars (Larabar Knockoff)

Ok.  I admit that I've never worked with dates before, and I've never tasted a Larabar, so I don't know how closely they resemble the real thing.  What I do know is that these are very tasty, very easy, pretty darn healthy, and don't require heating the oven.  They are the perfect summertime treat.

I made two small batches of these bars in about 15 minutes.  I made a Mixed Berry Cobbler variety and an Almond Butter-Chocolate Chip variety.  But really, these bars can be anything you want them to be.  All you need is dried dates (I used Medjool dates), a protein source such as nuts/seeds or nut butter/seed butter, and something to add a little extra flavor, such as chocolate chips or dried berries. 

You can add shredded coconut, cocoa powder, coconut oil, cinnamon or other spices.  If you can't find the dates, I think you could make these with dried figs or dried apricots, although the flavor would be different and they might need a little honey to sweeten them and hold them together.  Really, the possibilities are endless.

Right away, I liked the Mixed Berry Cobbler bars.  Kat seemed more fond of the Almond Butter-Chocolate Chip.  Shane liked them both.  And if you can hang on to them for a day or two (in the fridge is best), the flavors really develop. 

These bars are great with morning coffee, as a lunchbox treat, or as a protein-rich afternoon pick-me-up.


Almond Butter-Chocolate Chip Protein Bars

 Mixed Berry Cobbler Protein Bars

1/2 cup (about 6 large) dried dates, pitted
1/2 cup mixed dried berries (those I bought had blueberries, cranberries and cherries)
1 cup almonds (I used sliced, but whole will work)

Combine all in a food processor and process until a course meal-like texture is achieved.  Add water if necessary, 1/2 Tablespoon at a time, until mixture will hold together.

Scrape mixture out onto waxed or  paper, and using a spatula, form into a rough square or rectangle.  Top with another piece of waxed or parchment paper and roll to about 1/2" thick.  Using a spatula, even up sides if desired, and cut into bars.  Makes 8-10 bars.

Best if stored in refrigerator.


Mixed Berry Cobbler Protein Bars


Almond Butter-Chocolate Chip Protein Bars

1/2 cup (about 6 large) dried dates, pitted
1/2 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips - divided
2 to 4 Tablespoons almond butter

Combine dates and 1/4 cup chocolate chips in a food processor and process until a course meal-like texture is achieved.  Add almond butter, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture will hold together.  How much you need will depend on the consistency of the almond butter.  If it is very thick, you may also need to add a teaspoon or two of water.

Scrape mixture out onto waxed or  paper, and using a spatula, form into a rough square or rectangle.  Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips on top and press them in lightly.  Top mixture with another piece of waxed or parchment paper and roll to about 1/2" thick.  Using a spatula, even up sides if desired, and cut into bars.  Makes 8-10 bars.

Best if stored in refrigerator.
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